Setting Sail on the Sea Breeze

The sun was just beginning to rise over the horizon as I made my way to the Marina Cabo San Lucas, ready to embark on a private snorkeling tour aboard the 33ft Sea Ray Sundancer, affectionately known as the Sea Breeze. As a former professional surfer, I’ve spent countless hours in the ocean, but there’s something uniquely thrilling about exploring the underwater world from the comfort of a yacht. The Sea Breeze promised a blend of luxury and adventure, and I was eager to see what the day had in store.

Our captain, Lalu, and guide, Elio, greeted us with warm smiles and a sense of camaraderie that set the tone for the day. With the ocean conditions in mind, Lalu assured us of a smooth ride, a relief after my partner’s bout of motion sickness the day before. As we set off, the gentle hum of the engine and the salty breeze created a sense of freedom that only the open sea can provide.

Snorkeling in Santa Maria Bay

Our first destination was Santa Maria Bay, a spot renowned for its vibrant marine life. The water was a crisp 70°F, and I was grateful for the full wetsuit provided by our hosts. As we arrived, the bay was blissfully quiet, allowing us to have the snorkeling area to ourselves. The early start was a strategic move, ensuring we could explore the underwater world before the crowds descended.

Diving into the clear waters, I was immediately surrounded by schools of sergeant majors and yellowtail surgeonfish, their colors shimmering in the morning light. The guide, Elio, kept a watchful eye from his paddleboard, offering assistance and answering questions as we marveled at the marine life. While he wasn’t a marine biologist, his presence was reassuring, and his trick of tossing tortilla chips into the water brought the fish even closer, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

After snorkeling, I decided to try my hand at paddleboarding. It was a first for me, and the calm waters of the bay provided the perfect setting for a beginner. Meanwhile, the boat’s comfortable cushions offered a relaxing spot to soak up the sun, despite their slightly worn appearance.

Whales and Waves

As we made our way back, the Sea Breeze offered one more surprise: a close encounter with the majestic whales of Cabo. We paused near a lighthouse, where a mother and her calf were resting. The engines were cut, and we floated silently as the baby whale playfully rolled in the water, lifting its pectoral fins in a graceful dance. It was a moment of pure magic, one that rivaled any dedicated whale-watching tour.

The return journey was accompanied by the tunes of our choice, thanks to the boat’s Bluetooth speakers. With a cooler stocked with water and soda, and a box of snacks at our disposal, the Sea Breeze catered to our every need. The only challenge was the tiny ladder at the back of the boat, which proved tricky to navigate without assistance.

Reflecting on the day, the Sea Breeze delivered an unforgettable experience, blending the thrill of snorkeling with the serenity of whale watching. For those seeking a unique adventure in Cabo, this private yacht cruise is a must-try. Cabo Yacht Adventure